Prof Chris Whitty, Chief Medical Officer for England answers questions from media at No10 Downing Street press briefing

Professor Whitty discusses the transition from Plan A to Plan B, focusing on the potential impact of new COVID-19 variants, particularly the Delta variant. The discussion includes the importance of face masks and vaccine passports, and the challenges posed by variants that might escape vaccination. The potential impact of the Delta variant during winter is also considered, highlighting the uncertainty in predicting future developments.

What is considered a potential trigger for moving from Plan A to Plan B?

• Economic downturn

• Public protests against lockdowns

• A new variant that changes the situation

• A decrease in vaccination rates

What did the Prime Minister suggest regarding face masks in crowded indoor places?

• Face masks only for the unvaccinated

• No need for face masks

• Consideration of wearing face masks

• Mandatory wearing of face masks

What was the government's stated purpose for discussing vaccine passports?

• To restrict travel between regions

• To increase vaccination rates among the young

• To monitor public health compliance

• To reduce hospital admissions

What makes the Delta variant particularly concerning?

• It is only found in certain regions

• It causes more severe symptoms

• It is highly transmissible

• It is resistant to all vaccines

What combination of factors could lead to the implementation of Plan B?

• High vaccination rates and low case numbers

• Economic recession and public unrest

• Winter events and the Delta variant

• International travel restrictions and new variants